In the broader context of eSIMs, I forgot to mention earlier
eSIMDB. Not an app as such (or is there one?), but a very useful search tool.
Note: note all providers appear and I’d caution against just going for the cheapest - mainly on privacy grounds but also probably performance.
As you have a lot of experience with eSIMs, I wonder if you might list the one or two here that you think are easiest to install and run. For me as you know it’s Kolet.
Yes, I was quite impressed with Kolet during my last trip to Europe.
Keeping in context with the thread, an eSIM provider with a good
app that manages eSIM installation, purchasing and activation of plans is a winner.
There seems to be literally hundreds of eSIM providers now. Where they’re based and where your data gets routed can be a bit murky so I tend to stick to “name” brands.
Kolet - a new kid on the block. French based but good Euro coverage (and beyond) and reasonably priced. App is good and worked seamlessly for me with fast 5G coverage.
Airalo - has a decent app BUT what I don’t like is the need to install a seperate eSIM per plan. There are some great “advanced” user capability (ie Telstra customers who can hotwire “wifi calling”) but for the majority, it’s just a PITA. If their plan is price competitive, I’ll take it, but happy to go elsewhere.
Note: Airalo do have some country plans that include a local number, calls and text - which is rare.
Flexiroam - app used to be better but was “enhanced” and not in a good way but once you’ve installed the eSIM you can add and use plans on the go. Functionally, it’s my “go to” eSIM, but as mentioned earlier, it’s a bit pricier - keep an eye out for Sales.
Note: 28° MC holders get an annual freebie global plan and ongoing 15% discount.
Eskimo - there’s an ongoing freebie global plan offer that everyone should get.
a. It’s free, and
b. It runs for 2yrs (always handy to have a “global” plan in your back pocket if you’re just bouncing through somewhere and don’t really need/want to buy an expensive local plan).
The app is pretty straightforward but their plans are bit pricy. However, the long validity is relatively unique.
Ubigi - popular for use in Japan but has come in handy elsewhere. Middle of the road pricing. The app is a bit clunky.
Monty - one of the cheaper options but requires a seperate eSIM per plan type. Otherwise works ok but I was concerned on one trip that my browser at one point thought I was in China…
Saily - heavily promoted by “effluencers” because they offer unlimited data plans (not unique, Flexiroam and others do also), but be prepared to pay a shedload. Otherwise, the app works well and there are capped plans that aren’t too expensive (but probably better value elsewhere).
Truphone - one of the first (and the first eSIM I used circa 2018 in Sth Africa). They used to be reasonably priced but a bit more expensive but that can vary. They do charge in AUD if you preorder before leaving Oz however.
Just remember, no one size fits all.
Those listed generally provide 5G access or at least LTE. Some are better than others at telling you what network(s) they use and speed.
Most eSIM providers offer single Country plans, Regional Plans (eg Europe, Asia, Africa) and Global. You can usually stack multiple overlapping plans if you’re moving around - rather than just get one more expensive Global plan.
Not all “Global” plans are created equally. Check carefully if the country/ies your visiting is/are included!
I’m seeing more providers offering auto activation on arrival - so all the more reason to install your eSIM before you fly (but over stable wifi). You can also buy and install over hotel wifi while away of course).
. Both of us read the instructions on YouTube and those sent to us via WhatsApp numerous times, but still could not get the activation to work. We will probably need a young person showing us 'in person' how to do it - it could be a setting which needed to turn on / off.
